Vitamin B12 is also known as the energy vitamin because it is essential
for critical functions such as blood formation, energy production,
central nervous system function, and DNA synthesis. Without adequate B12
your body can display symptoms that mimic depression, dementia and even
multiple sclerosis. Read more on my Vitamin B12 page.

What are deficiency symptoms for vitamin B12?

Low vitamin b12 can lead to anaemia, fatigue, and depression. Long term
deficiency has the potential to cause permanent damage to the central
nervous system and the brain.

Following is a list of
potential vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms, but be aware these can also
be the result of other nutrient deficiencies and conditions. If you are deficient in vitamin B12, then you may have some of these symptoms but not all.

Fatigue and feelings of weakness

Anaemia

Nervousness

Depression

Mood swings

Poor eye health

Red and/or sore tongue

Numbness/tingling in arms and legs

Heart palpitations

Occasional digestive issues

Difficulty swallowing

Decreased blood clotting

Memory problems and mental fogginess

Menstrual problems

Decreased reflexes

Loss of motivation/apathy

Lack of coordination

Hair loss and/or dandruff

Sleep difficulties/insomnia

What are the causes of Vitamin B12 Deficiency?

Many of the causes of vitamin B12 deficiency are listed on the Vitamin B12 page.

How is Vitamin B12 Deficiency diagnosed?

The
only way to ascertain Vitamin B12 levels in the blood is to have the
new tests of serum methylmalonic acid and homocysteine which are highly
sensitive for vitamin B12 deficiency. (Afd. Inwendige Geneeskunde, Academisch Medisch Centrum/Universiteit van Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam.) See your health professional for testing.

Depending
on whether you have a mild or severe deficiency, you will be prescribed
oral pills; sublingual pills, liquid, or strip; intranasal spray;
transdermal patches or by injection.

For severe
vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms, the traditional approach is to give
subcutaneous or intramuscular injections of hydroxycobalamin,
cyanocobalamin, or methylcobalamin. Stores in the liver are partly
repleted with six injections in the first couple of weeks but full
repletion of liver stores will require approximately 20 injections, and
then maintenance with monthly injections throughout the life of the
patient. Vitamin B12 injections can also be self-administered using the
same fine-gauge needles and syringes used for self-administration of
insulin but this is all to be ascertained by your health professional.

Interesting Article

According to an article appearing in the Americal Family PhysicianContrary to prevailing medical practice, studies show that supplementation with oral vitamin B12 is a safe and effective treatment for the B12 deficiency state. Even when intrinsic factor is not present to aid in the absorption of vitamin B12 (pernicious anemia) or in other diseases that affect the usual absorption sites in the terminal ileum, oral therapy remains effective.

Most of the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency can often be reversed by early diagnosis and prompt treatment.